Japanese Brands, Which Have Historically Dominated the List, Took Only Five Spots

Consumer Reports rated Tesla Motor Co.'s Model S as the best overall vehicle to buy in its annual top 10 list, which also included a Chrysler Group LLC product for the first time in 16 years.

The magazine bestowed the top honor on the electric-powered luxury vehicle based on its "blistering acceleration" and "razor-sharp handling" although the car retails for more than $89,000 and Tesla sold fewer than 23,000 of...